SUCCESS CRITERIA
STAFF & TRAINING
The continued professional development and training of all NIFCA officers and staff remains a core part of the Authority’s 2025–2026 work plan. Training needs will be regularly reviewed and integrated into operational planning to ensure staff are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to carry out their duties effectively. NIFCA will maintain and review staffing policies and continue regular planning meetings involving the Senior Management Team and both enforcement and environmental IFCOs. These ensure a coordinated approach to operational priorities and enable timely responses to routine and emerging challenges. With support from additional Defra funding, the Authority now employs two full-time Environmental IFCOs. Their work includes supporting the Environment team, responding to Marine Licence applications, and finalising MPA obligations assessments. All IFCO activities are subject to ongoing review through structured and ad hoc meetings led by the Chief Officer. The staff appraisal system, originally established by the Northumberland Sea Fisheries Committee and further developed by NIFCA, continues to provide a structured process for performance review, identifying learning needs, and supporting career development through constructive feedback and staff input. To enhance operational capacity, a second engineer will be recruited by mid-2025 to support the Skipper/Engineer in maintaining vessels and equipment, and to assist with enforcement and survey tasks. Training will also support increased use of unmanned aerial vehicles in enforcement and research. NIFCA remains committed to high-quality training for staff and Authority members, balancing this with a cost-conscious approach to ensure standards are upheld within available resources. The Authority will continue to participate in national-level training through the Competent Officer programme for enforcement and environmental officers. Delivered via Kent and Essex IFCA and supported by officers from across the network, this programme will see three NIFCA officers attend in early 2026. NIFCA also engages with national forums such as the Technical Advisory Group (TAG), which supports IFCAs’ scientific and environmental work, and the National Inshore Marine Enforcement Group (NIMEG), which focuses on developing and coordinating enforcement practices. Planned Training for 2025–2026: Conflict management
4x4 driving and trailer handling for all operational staff STCW refresher courses for relevant team members
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